Fort Myers, FL Fire Regulations: Backyard Fires (2026)

The Fort Myers Fire Department enforces backyard-fire rules through the adopted Florida Fire Prevention Code (FFPC), 8th Edition (NFPA 1, 2021, effective December 31, 2023) and Chapter 40 of the City Code. NFPA 1 distinguishes three categories: (1) Recreational fire: 3 ft or less in diameter, 2 ft or less in height, 25-foot clearance to structures and combustibles, only natural untreated wood as fuel, attended by an adult with extinguishment means. No permit required. (2) Portable outdoor fireplace (manufactured chiminea, fire bowl, etc.): operated per manufacturer instructions with 15-foot clearance from structures and combustibles; in multifamily buildings, 15 feet from the building. (3) Bonfire / open fire larger than recreational-fire dimensions: permit required from the Fort Myers Fire Department (a site visit by the fire marshal or designee is required prior to permit issuance under Fort Myers Fire Department policy). Prohibited fuels under FAC 5I-2.004 include household garbage, treated lumber, painted material, tires, plastics, rubber, paint and other polluting or hazardous materials. Cooking fires in a grill, barbecue, or smoker for food preparation are exempt from recreational-fire rules. The Fort Myers Fire Department also regulates patio heaters and open-flame devices under Chapter 40 (Section 40-33 referenced in city documents). All backyard fires must be extinguished if winds exceed 15 mph or if the National Weather Service issues a Red Flag Warning for southwest Florida. When Lee County declares an emergency burn ban under Ordinance 18-09 (KBDI ≥ 600 or other extreme drought conditions), recreational fires, bonfires, and portable outdoor fireplaces are prohibited; cooking grills remain permitted.